Rizal mayor tagged in ‘narcolist’ survives ambush try

SAN PEDRO CITY –– Police are investigating an attempt on the life of Raul Palino, the mayor of Teresa, Rizal, who was previously named by President Duterte as among local officials tied to illegal drugs.

Col. Renato Alba, Rizal police director, in a text message Tuesday, said Palino was unharmed, but his bodyguard Ruel Santos and driver Joel Balajadia were hurt in the shooting incident.

According to a police report, the mayor was on board his van, and was on his way home, when the vehicle was shot at around 5 p.m. Monday at E. Rodriguez Ave. in Barangay Poblacion.

Based on the initial investigation, the lone shooter escaped on foot towards Antipolo City.

Alba said they have immediately activated a police operation to hunt down the suspect, while motive was being established.

In 2019, Palino was included in the list of 46 politicians, who according to President Duterte were involved in the drug trade.

Palino had denied the allegation and even sought out the regional police headquarters to clear his name.

LZB